Twenty-four hours after signing a new four-year contract that media reports said was worth 300,000 pounds a week, the England forward repaid the faith of manager David Moyes with a stunning volley in the 68th minute.

Rooney's strike came six minutes after Robin van Persie had converted a penalty and secured a comfortable away win, their first of 2014, against a tough Palace side.

"Sometimes when Wayne doesn't have time to think he does things naturally," Moyes told a news conference after the champions rose one place in the table to sixth, 15 points behind leaders Chelsea.

"He's got all that natural talent, the technique and the ability to get his weight behind the ball to strike it cleanly. He works hard for the team, some of his passing was fantastic tonight and his finish was great."

Rooney has made 431 appearances for United, notching 209 goals. He is fourth on the club's scoring list and is eyeing Bobby Charlton's record of 249.

United were fresh from a warm-weather training break in Dubai and Moyes said a good result against Palace was needed ahead of the Champions League last-16 first leg at Olympiakos Piraeus of Greece.

Image: Wayne Rooney of Manchester United celebrates with teammates after scoring against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on SaturdayPhotographs: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images